PUC Slaps PG&E

      Our NorCal monopoly, energy giant Pacific Gas & Electric, was fined $1.6 billions yesterday for failings related to the explosion and fire in San Bruno, CA in 2010 that killed 8 people and damaged or destroyed 100 homes.  The panel cited 3, 743 violations of federal, state, and local rules that led up to the disastrous explosion and fire that followed, trapping some inhabitants in their homes.
     Of course, PG&E stock advanced on the news as executives admitted responsibility.   Another lawsuit is pending regarding federal violations separately.
      The monopoly has done little to redeem itself in the eyes of rate payers and regulators.  yes, they've hired more gas line specialists(not enough?).  Yes, they have redesigned their maintenance operations, but, does the customer feel safer?
      Recently, the Mayor had an electrical problem at the house.  Flickering lights.  It was determined by PG&E to be a damaged in coming cable wire providing power to the junction box outside the house.  It needed replacement and conduit patching.  Under the close observation of the Mayor, the work was completed in 2 1/2 hours.  About 230' of wire was installed in place during that time.  About 8-9 individuals were involved with the effort.   This incident occurred shortly after the San Bruno debacle.
      When asked about the bill, the foreman indicated that in light of recent events and that it was between the house and pole, it would probably be included in the service, at no charge.
     Months later, the bill arrived: $15,000. Again, $15,000.   When I called the # provided, the rep said that was the cost for the work, including materials.   When I told her the time involved, she repeated the former statement and hung up the phone.
      You gotta love a monopoly, especially one that is state sanctioned, like PetroBras, or PeMex, or GasProm.   No doubt the billing staff thinks they can charge like a hospital, without regard to costs!